Welcome to a great store and a great site!

Champaign Surplus is a family-run business dedicated to personal service. We've established this site to share information and our expertise. While you're here, learn about our store and our merchandise. Check our gear lists and our suggestions on what to wear. Investigate great places to hike and paddle. Read about our favorite gear and destinations. Even check out our customers' favorites.

Ira and Lynn Wachtel, 2000

Our brick and mortar store has been located in downtown Champaign since 1947, about a mile from the University of Illinois. We are a ma-and-pa kind of place, with one location, great merchandise and an informed, helpful staff. We like to listen to our customers' plans and needs and sell you, the customer, the gear you need and want. We love to hear that we helped to make your trip, adventure or your day on the job just a little bit more exciting and enjoyable.

Leo and Anne Weisel, 1940

Leo and Anne Weisel started Champaign Surplus after World War II as an Army-Navy Surplus Store. Over a half century later, Ira and Lynn Wachtel (son-in-law and daughter) own and operate the store, maintaining the friendly, family-style service and value oriented atmosphere that began in 1947. We are still an Army-Navy Surplus store, but in addition we have become the premier outdoor outfitter in Central Illinois. We are a unique blend of new and old, rugged outdoor and genuine military, brand names and special deals.

You get the idea. We think we're special. We love and use the gear we sell. We have fun running our business and you will have fun visiting the store or our web site. We are eager to help you with your questions and needs.